Gemotions

The news felt like a physical blow. "Denied." The word echoed in her mind, an unwanted companion. The weight of it settled in her chest, making it difficult to breathe. She felt a growing pressure behind her eyes, the familiar precursor to tears.

She tried to busy herself, starting to organize her books, then abandoning the task mid-way through. Everything seemed pointless. Motivation, once a driving force, evaporated.

She sank onto the sofa, staring blankly at the television screen. The brightly colored images flickered, but she saw nothing, her mind consumed by the disappointment.